Clearer advice expected Wednesday on COVID-19 booster shots

On Wednesday, the public could get a big update on the future of COVID-19 booster shots.

Posted 10:19 a.m. Sep 22, 2021 — Updated 11:04 a.m. Sep 22, 2021

Kasey Cunningham

, WRAL reporter

On Wednesday, the public could get a big update on the future of COVID-19 booster shots.

The two federal agencies that will influence the decision, the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, are both expected to weigh in.

The main discussion at 10 a.m. will include a recommendation from the CDC regarding whether or not Americans should receive a booster shot. The FDA is also expected to vote on the booster.

NC waiting on CDC guidance before giving booster shots to elderly

The guidance in recent weeks has been mixed, leading some hospitals and health systems in our area to stop giving boosters to everyone until there’s more guidance from the CDC. Currently, the booster is only recommended for people who are immunocompromised.

Last week, a panel of FDA experts said a third Pfizer shot isn't needed for the general public, just those 65 and over and those who have a weakened immune system. That panel’s recommendation on boosters will now go to the FDA for a vote and to the CDC for Wednesday's discussion.

On Tuesday, Johnson & Johnson vaccine makers said a booster of the shot could provide stronger protection against coronavirus. Originally, boosters were only discussed for people who received Moderna or Pfizer two-dose mRNA vaccines.

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